Another holiday season is upon us. It feels like only yesterday that I was wishing you Happy Thanksgiving for the year 2000. Much has happened since then. Our country has changed forever. But there are many things to be thankful for even in light of the tragedies that befell us these past few months. Let us be thankful for our friends and family. For our talents. For our country coming together. For our coming together in support of our favorite soaps and soap characters. For making cyberfriends right here at Turtle-Run! Let us be thankful that we live in a country where we can speak our mind and express our opinions, a country where even the little guy gets a shot at making it big. Have a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving, everybody! Gobble, Gobble.

AMC's Very SpecialPineValley Thanksgiving

ABC Daytime will air a very special episode of All My Children on Thanksgiving Day,Thursday, November 22, 2001. Breaking away from all current story lines to celebrate the holiday, the show will embrace the importance of family, love, giving and togetherness.

This Thanksgiving in PineValley will bring 25 of your favorite AMC characters together, including Erica Kane (Susan Lucci) and Stuart Chandler (David Canary). It begins as Erica and Stuart set out to celebrate the holiday with their respective families. Due to various circumstances and twists, that we will all have to tune in to see, all families eventually come together as a loving community at Hayley (Kelly Ripa) and Mateo's (Mark Consuelos) house to share the special day.

"Now, more than ever, Americans are focusing on family and spending time with their loved ones," said AMC Executive Producer, Jean Dadairo Burke. "We wanted to offer our fans and everyone across the nation an hour of uplifting family entertainment to bring in the holiday season."

ABC7's Janet Davis and Jim Rose co-host the "Fields Jingle Elf Parade" presented by Target. For the fourth consecutive year, Chicago's ABC7 will broadcast the parade live on Thursday, November 22 from 9-11 AM, with a repeat airing on Sunday, December 15 at12:30 PM and again on Sunday, December 23 at 12:30 PM. Among the special guests appearing at the parade are Tamara Braun (Carly, GH),Kiko Ellsworth (Jamal, PC) and actor Jeremy Piven. Mike and Sully from Disney and Pixar's "Monsters' Inc." will make their first appearance in the parade. The parade marks the season's arrival of Marshall Field's Jingle Elves, who traditionally spend the month of December practicing random acts of kindness throughout the Chicago area. The Elves will spread holiday cheer to about 300,000 spectators along the parade route.

Speaking of PC's Kiko Ellsworth...

Kiko Ellsworth, PC's Jamal, has just announced his new calendars, posters and postcards. They are available at his website, and Kiko is more than excited about these new offerings.

"Hey Y'all! Kiko's 2002 Debut Calendar and posters are now available for purchase in the "Kiko Store" at www.kikoellsworth.com ," said Ellsworth. "A portion of the proceeds of the calendars go towards www.break-the-cycle.org. " Ellsworth shared that Break the Cycle is a non-profit organization dedicated to stopping domestic violence against women and children.

"Help me out if you can," Ellsworth says as he reaches out to his fans. "I have 10,000 calendars that I'm shootin' to sell before the New Year. You can send out emails, spread the word or whatever works. I'm doing my part with various promotional flyers, and will be in the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade!" (Chicago fans, get on out and see Kiko Ellsworth in the Fields Jingle Elf Parade on November 22. See above.)

Kiko went on to say that this is one of the things that will help him get closer to one of his major goals, TRANSFORMATIONISLAND. "Without being too wordy," Ellsworth explains, "TransformationIsland will be a place for terminally ill kids to transform their lives in exchange for healthy ones."

Be sure to visit www.kikoellsworth.com and check out the new calendar, posters and postcards.

DOOL Cast & Crew Celebrates 36 Years

Congratulations to Days of our Lives' as cast and crew gathered at the House of Blues on the famous Sunset Strip in Los Angeles, Saturday night, November 10th, to celebrate the 36th Anniversary of NBC's number one daytime drama. After the party, where guests feasted on an eclectic array of American cuisine, Executive Producer Ken Corday took to the stage and paid tribute to the talented and dedicated cast before acknowledging the tireless dedication and exquisite talents from all the departments behind-the-scenes. Prior to showing a highlight reel featuring clips from the entire last year of the show, Ken Corday took a solemn stance and expressed the importance of family and national solidarity during this challenging time for our country.

After a bloopers segment of the highlight reel was shown, in which no cast member was spared embarrassment, original cast member Frances Reid joined Ken on stage to call upon the entire cast to help cut the cake, which was shaped as an hourglass. After the cake-cutting ceremony and several hugs and photos, the guests danced the night away to the disco tunes of the Funky Hippies.

Again, congratulations to DOOL for reaching this programming milestone. Here's to 36 more years of romance, mystery and intrigue in Salem!

Soap Opera Weekly Lands Exclusive -- Popular Culture Still Available in War-Torn Afghanistan and Weekly has the Scoop

Seventy percent of the population in Afghanistan cling to their BBC - produced soap opera, and Soap Opera Weekly, the on-the-scene news weekly print publication for soap fans, has been granted an American exclusive with Shirazuddin Siddiqi, head-writer of "New Home, New Life," a UN funded soap opera heard by 35 million listeners three days a week, every week, in bothAfghanistan and Pakistan.

Contacted by SPW Assistant Managing Editor Robert Schork, Siddiqui, now living in exile in Pakistan, clarifies how this bastion of popular culture escaped being outlawed by the Taliban. "The radio is the last channel we have to reach people," he said. "We are actually helping a whole nation who has been neglected for so long. We're on the air, offering them support, giving them the opportunity to connect with each other, giving them a little bit of laughter, and most importantly, some practical advice on how to deal with problems that they face in their daily lives."

On the air since 1994, "New Home, New Life" reaches millions of Afghan refugees and airs in both Pashto and Dari. Set in Bar Killi, a remote, rural village filled with corruption, forced marriages, blood feuds, opium addiction, land mine explosions and illiteracy, the show has had some success in changing Taliban policy. "We had a child character injured on the front lines," said Siddiqui. "We used that to criticize the Taliban's policy of plucking young children out of school and sending them to battle."

An instant hit, the show was originally intended to help 5 million civil war refugees in Pakistan and Iran return to Afghanistan, but under the Taliban regime that never happened. Interrestingly, many of the show's biggest fans are the Taliban's own rank and file. A recent visit to the country by two of the show's lead actors and an evaluation team seeking audience feedback was detained by the Taliban, but was ultimately welcomed like heroes and invited to their compound to dine with more than a hundred Taliban officials.

Now with the U.S. war against terrorism and subsequent bombing campaign against the Taliban, "New Home, New Life" has struggled to figure out what role they could play. Stories now deal with current issues from taking shelter in the ruins to the hidden perils of landmines and the risk of fleeing without food or medical assistance.

Published every week since 1989, Soap Opera Weekly is the only weekly television news magazine that covers all ten daytime soap operas as well as daytime court shows, primetime reality shows and prime time drama and comedy series with continuing storylines. The magazine is home to the Soap Opera Hall of Fame. Watch for the exclusive story on "New Home, New Life" to appear soon in Soap Opera Weekly.

Famous Wedding Dress Auction on eBay to Raise Money for The 9-11 Relief Fund

'Korbel Ultimate Bridal Gown Auction' Invites Americans to Take Home A Piece of Hollywood History

Famous bridal gowns and accessories -- including Sela Ward's dress worn in ABC's hit Once and Again and Sigourney Weaver's veil from her role in the MGM movie Heartbreakers, among others are hitting the auction block for charity in the "Korbel Ultimate Bridal Gown Auction." Fans of television hits such as Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman and soap operas, such as Bold andthe Beautiful, Days of our Lives and Guiding Light won't want to the opportunity to participate in the online auction on eBay. All proceeds to benefit the Entertainment Industry Foundation's 9-11 Relief Fund, which provides funding assistance for relief efforts related to the events of September 11.

Bidding began at 8:00 a.m. (EST) on Wednesday, November 14 and remains open until 8:00 a.m. (EST) Friday, November 23. Visit the Korbel Ultimate Bridal Gown Auction eBay Web page at http://www.ebay.com/charity for more information and to preview the gowns and accessories available for auction. To learn more about the "Korbel Ultimate Bridal Gown Auction," visit http://www.korbel.com

Now on SoapCenter as of Friday, November 16, 2001

Special Coverage of ABC Super Soap Weekend

It's a star-studded extravaganza as you go front and center -- and behind the scenes --of the sixth annual ABC Super Soap Weekend at the Disney-MGM Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. Join hosts Tanika Ray and Peggy Bunker as they guide you on a three-day action packed roller coaster ride with popular actors from All My Children, General Hospital, One Life to Liveand Port Charles. Among the events we'll cover:

Special coverage of the Street Jam Concert, featuring performances by Lucci, Kassie DePaiva and Catherine Hickland (Blair and Lindsay, One Life to Live), Wally Kurthand Coltin Scott (Ned and Nikolas, General Hospital).

Larry Lau: Super Soap Newcomer

The first time at Super Soap Weekend can be daunting. One Life toLive's Catherine Hickland and Hillary B. Smith (Lindsay and Nora) give first-timer Larry Lau (Sam) a crash-course in how to fully enjoy Super Soap Weekend.

Premiering on SoapCenter Friday, November 23, 2001

With hosts Peggy Bunker in New York and Tanika Ray in Los Angeles

Behind the Scenes: Hidden Passions

NBC's Passions is incorporating a lost chapter from the best-selling book "Hidden Passions" into its onscreen story. Go behind the scenes at Passions for this extravagant fantasy sequence -- which takes place on the Titanic.

Storyline Spotlight: Guiding Light's Danny & Carmen

An in-depth look at the dysfunctional relationship between reluctant Guiding Light mob boss Danny Santos and his mother-from-hell, Carmen. Actors Paul Anthony Stewart and Saundra Santiago(Danny and Carmen) give us insight into their characters' twisted dynamic and discuss their real-life friendship.

Flashback: Thanksgiving with GH's Quartermaines

Despite elaborate plans, General Hospital's Quartermaine family ends up eating pizza for Thanksgiving every year-- and this year is no exception. Takes a fond look back at the Q family's previous Thanksgiving fiascoes and get a preview of what to expect this year.

At Home with PC's Brian Presley and Y&R's Thad Luckinbill

Brian Presley, who plays Jack on ABC's Port Charles, and Thad Luckinbill, who plays J.T. on CBS's Young and the Restless share an apartment in suburban Los Angeles. They welcomed Tanika Ray into their bachelor pad.

Behind the Scenes: Fashion Show on As the World Turns

Peggy Bunker takes you behind the scenes at Barbara's (actress Colleen Zenk Pinter) eagerly anticipated fashion show on As the World Turns. This show is Barbara's first since she was disfigured in an explosion last summer. Included in this season's collection: Glamour, romance, intrigue, deception and deceit.

**TRO Disclaimer: The above SoapCenter segments are scheduled in advance and may be bumped without notice for airing at a later date. The above segments may then be replaced with other segments. Check your local listings.**

Casting

As the World Turns:Monica McKenzie, Tanja Hogeback, JacquelinePignataro, Kimberly Parris and Diana Weissman play models in the BRO fashion show on Monday and Tuesday, November 19th and 20th. Lizzy Mahon plays Angelina, and Sophina Brown plays Valencia on Wednesday, November 21st.

Days of our Lives: For the week of November 19-23, 2001 Veronica Lauren returns as Cynthia on Wednesday and Thursday, November 21, 22, 2001.

Port Charles: Real-life couple, and veteran actors, Charlie Brill and Mitzie McCall, make a cameo appearance as Mr. & Mrs. Murphy on Tuesday, December 11, 2001. The couple last appeared on the television series, "Silk Stalkings" as Captian Harry and Franny Lipschitz. Brill met McCall when they both appeared at the Jerry Lewis Comedy Workshop in 1959. The couple has one daughter, Jennifer, and are the Godparents to actress Melissa Gilbert.

Seeing Stars

AMC: On Thursday, November 22 Cameron Mathison (Ryan) appears at 6ABC/Boscov's Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philly, PA. The parade starts from 20th and Market Streets at 8:20 AM. The parade will also be broadcast on WPVI-TV from 9 AM-noon. For info call 216 581-4502. On Saturday, December 1,Josh Duhamel (Leo) appears at Cinemark -- The Palace Theatre in Kansas City, MO from 1-3 PM. On Saturday, February 9, 2002 Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), Michael E. Knight (Tad) & Walt Willey (Jackson) appear at the 3rd Annual Valentine's Dinner With The Stars ~ Mote Marine Event. Also attending from One Life to Live are Mark Derwin (Ben), David Fumero (Cristian) and Catherine Hickland (Lindsay) at the beautiful Michael's on East, Sarasota. All proceeds benefit the Dolphin and Whale Hospital. Call 941-388-4441 Ext. 465 for additional information. (Some appearance info provided by SEAHAAS.)

As the World Turns: Michael Park (Jack) will appear at Sears, Roebuck & Co., Arcadia Crossing, 4531 East Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85008 on Saturday, December 8 from 1:30-3:30pm. For info, call 602/956-1263. The As The World Turns Fan Club Luncheon will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2002 from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. The luncheon will be held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel, 1535 Broadway, New York, NY. Tickets are $90.00 for non-fan club members and $85.00 for current ATWT Fan Club Members. A $15.00 non-refundable deposit per person will reserve your seat in the order it is received. Checks and money orders are payable to: As The World Turns Fan Club Luncheon Tickets, P.O. Box 647, Merrick, NY 11566-0647.

Days of Our Lives: Wednesday, November 28 see SteveBlackwood at Jax in Glendale, CA from 9 PM-1AM. Call 818 500-1604 for info. On Wednesday, November 21st at 4:00 PM, Kirsten Storms and Jason Cook will be signing autographs and greeting fans at the Macy's Harold Square Store on 34th Street in New York City. Kirsten and Jason will be

appearing in the Thanksgiving Parade the next morning. On Saturday November 24, 2001 at 2 PM, FarahFath (Mimi) will be appearing at the Turfland Mall in Lexington, Kentucky. Farah will be signing autographs and hosting a fashion show that will benefit special needs adoptions. For more information, please call 859-273-2301. On Sunday, November 25th, Jay Kenneth Johnson (Philip), Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe) and Kyle Lowder (Brady) will appear in the 70th Annual Hollywood Christmas Parade, which is broadcast all over the world from Hollywood. The parade, which is scheduled to air on most UPN stations, will also be seen by our Armed Forces overseas. (Check local listings for date and time.) On Saturday December 1, 2001 at Theatre Macon in Macon, Georgia, James Reynolds (Abe) and ValerieWildman (Faye) will present "Words of Love". The play will begin at 7PM. Admission is $15, which includes the play and a reception afterwards. At the reception, refreshments will be served and fans will have time to "mix and mingle" with James and Valerie. This special performance will benefit Ted Stuckey of Dodge County who has terminal cancer. For more information, email Kayla Williams at
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. On Saturday, December 1, 2001 Jason Cook will sign autographs at the Sears store in Pueblo, Colorado from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. See Passions' JesseMetcalfe (Miguel), and DOOL's Jay Kenneth Johnson (Philip), Jason Cook (Shawn), and Kyle Lowder (Brady) on Sunday, December 2, 2001 at The White Sands Oceanfront Resort and Spa Point Pleasant, NJ from 12-4:00pm. Tickets $85 per person. Send S.A.S.E. to S.T.A.R.S., PO Box 195, Adelphia, NJ 07710 For further info call: (732) 294-1682.

One Life to Live: On Thursday, November 29 see Catherine Hickland (Lindsay,) and stars from OLTL, AMC, ATWT, and GL, appearing at Blondie's Restaurant in New York City on from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets are $25. All proceeds will benefit the families of the firefighters lost on September 11. Call (212) 362-3311 for more information. On December 1, Larry Lau (Sam) appears at the Huck Finns Warehouse Outlet in Albany, NY from 1-3 PM. Call 518 869-9587. Also on December 1, see Ty Treadway (Troy/Colin) at Home Décor in Minneapolis, MN from 1-3 PM. Call 612 520-6308. See TyTreadway on Saturday, December 8, 2001 at Sears in Crystal Lake, IL from 1-3 pm. Call 815 477-4718 for info. On Saturday, February 9, 2002 Mark Derwin (Ben), David Fumero (Cristian) and Catherine Hickland (Lindsay) appear at the 3rd Annual Valentine's Dinner With The Stars ~ Mote Marine Event. Also attending from All My Children are Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), Michael E. Knight (Tad) & Walt Willey (Jackson) at the beautiful Michael's on East, Sarasota. All proceeds benefit the Dolphin and Whale Hospital. Call 941-388-4441 Ext. 465 for additional information. (Some appearance info submitted by SEAHAAS.)

Passions: On Friday, November 30 - Sunday, January 6,Donn Swaby (Chad) appears in The Foundation Theatre Company's "Slow Dance on the Killing Ground," a three-act play written by William Hanley and directed by Zadia Ife. Swaby is also producing. The play opens on Friday, November 30. Performances are Friday and Saturday nights at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday's at 7:00 p.m. It will be performed at The Ventura Court Theatre, located at 12417 Ventura Court (one block north of Ventura Blvd. and Whitsett Ave.) in Studio City, CA. Tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door. To make reservations call 818-773-7899. See Passions' JesseMetcalfe (Miguel), and DOOL's Jay Kenneth Johnson (Philip), Jason Cook (Shawn), and Kyle Lowder (Brady) on Sunday, December 2, 2001 at The White Sands Oceanfront Resort and Spa Point Pleasant, NJ from 12-4:00pm. Tickets $85 per person. Send S.A.S.E. to S.T.A.R.S., PO Box 195, Adelphia, NJ 07710 For further info call: (732) 294-1682. On Sunday, December 16. 2001, Lindsay Korman (Theresa) performs The National Anthem at the Los Angeles Clippers vs. Detroit Pistons game 12:30 p.m. at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA. Tickets can be obtained through Ticketmaster or the Staples Center box office.

Young & the Restless: Shemar Moore is still touring the U.S. in "The Fabric of A Man." Check your local newspapers.

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